Attacking midfielder Harry Healy, newly arrived from Billingham Synthonia, grabbed both goals – one from the penalty spot – in a morale-boosting 2-1 win over higher-league Whitby Town. It added to the two he scored against Great Ayton on Saturday and his goals are clearly going to be an important asset in the months ahead.

Town have won five of their six warm-up matches under new manager Jamie, who has transformed the squad since arriving at the club two months ago. He is determined to lift standards following a disastrous 2025-26 campaign in which we fortuitously saved our Northern League Division One status following a last-minute reprieve from the FA.

We open the league campaign on Saturday with a trip to last season’s third-placers Whitley Bay and entertain newly-relegated Bishop Auckland at the Calvert Stadium next Tuesday.

“It’s a demanding start but we’re in good heart following a very satisfying pre-season,” says Jamie Poole. “I’ve told the lads I want to win every game, no matter whether it’s a friendly or a league match, because that’s the way we set good habits.

“I’ve been really pleased with the attitude of the lads and how well the new players have blended in. We’ve recruited some really outstanding young prospects that other clubs have been trying to sign and we also have good experience in the squad.

“We’re very conscious that things have to improve after last season. If we can get a good start, I’m sure the whole town will get behind us.”